Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Crispy, juicy, and full of flavor, Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the perfect weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing appetizer. Featuring a delightful blend of tangy lemon, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese, these chicken tenders are baked or air-fried to golden perfection for a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Whether served with your favorite dipping sauce or paired with a fresh salad, this recipe is sure to become a household staple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Option: These chicken tenders are baked or air-fried instead of deep-fried, cutting down on excess oil without sacrificing crispiness.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and sharp Parmesan cheese elevates the humble chicken tender into a gourmet treat.
• Family-Friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike, these tenders are a versatile addition to any meal.
• Easy and Quick: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit different dietary needs, including gluten-free and low-carb variations.

Ingredients

• Chicken tenders or chicken breast cut into strips
• Lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Garlic, minced
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Olive oil spray

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Set aside.
2. Set Up the Breading Station: In three shallow bowls, prepare the breading components:
   • Bowl 1: All-purpose flour mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper.
   • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs combined with minced garlic and a splash of lemon juice.
   • Bowl 3: A mixture of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and additional Italian seasoning.
3. Bread the Chicken:
   • Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
   • Dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the crumbs.
4. Prepare for Baking or Air-Frying:
   • For Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with olive oil. Arrange the breaded tenders in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Spray the tops with additional olive oil.
   • For Air-Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil and arrange the tenders in a single layer. Spray the tops with olive oil.
5. Cook the Chicken:
   • Baking: Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
   • Air-Frying: Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and fully cooked.
6. Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken tenders to a serving plate. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of lemon wedges.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Low-Carb/Keto: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
• Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a bit of heat.
• Herbaceous Flavor: Mix fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture for an earthy taste.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Arrange the cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

How do I keep the chicken tenders crispy?

Ensure you spray the tenders lightly with olive oil before baking or air-frying and avoid overcrowding the pan or air fryer basket.

Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the chicken in advance and refrigerate it for up to 4 hours before cooking.

What dipping sauces pair well with these tenders?

Ranch dressing, honey mustard, garlic aioli, marinara, or even a simple squeeze of fresh lemon juice are great options.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but they may require slightly longer cooking times to ensure doneness.

Can I bake these tenders in a toaster oven?

Absolutely! Just reduce the batch size to fit your toaster oven and monitor closely for even cooking.

Are these chicken tenders freezer-friendly?

Yes, both cooked and uncooked breaded tenders can be frozen for convenient meal prep.

How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?

Yes, but for extra flavor, consider seasoning them with Italian herbs, garlic powder, or Parmesan cheese.

What’s the best way to zest a lemon?

Use a microplane or fine grater to remove the yellow zest while avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.

Can I skip the Parmesan cheese?

While Parmesan adds a rich flavor, you can omit it or replace it with a vegan alternative for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders combine crispy texture, tangy flavors, and a touch of indulgence to create a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Perfect for family dinners, game-day snacks, or meal prepping, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Give it a try today and savor the irresistible combination of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan in every bite!

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